Inspired by aqua-musical legend Esther Williams, Esther’s High Dive draws from a world of pastel Palm Springs, Americana motel culture, and poolside cool. Vintage signage casts a soft glow. The room stays cozy yet cinematic, the kind of place that convinces you to stop in for one drink and somehow stay long enough to order fries, a second cocktail, and maybe a third.
The bar program comes from Nashville transplant Max Karlin, a veteran cocktail creator with a gift for making familiar drinks feel new again. Guests can expect riffs on classics rather than precious mixology sermons. A bubbly, easygoing take on a dirty martini stands out, while another cocktail leans tropical with a mango sticky rice milk punch that sounds wild and drinks silky smooth.
“Designing the cocktail menu for Esther’s High Dive was about finding the right balance between nostalgia and surprise,” Karlin said. “I wanted to take flavors people recognize and love, then push them just enough to feel fresh and exciting.”
The food follows the same philosophy. Dive bar favorites get a glow-up without losing their soul. Disco fries arrive hot and craveable. Bar snacks are made for sharing, and the double smashburger anchors the menu – especially when topped with thick-cut maple-pepper bacon.
Co-owners Colleen Hagerty and Tyler Almeida stand behind the concept, bringing decades of hospitality experience and a crystal-clear vision for the space.
“We aimed to create a bar that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers an incredible experience,” Hagerty said. “Esther Williams lived in a world full of color, movement, and unapologetic glamour.”
Almeida says the goal is comfort with character. “Whether you’re stopping in for a fantastic cocktail or settling into a booth with friends, High Dive aims to feel like home, just with better lighting.” For more information, visit EsthersHighDive.com.
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